How does even multiplicity impact a graph?
2 answers
It means the graph is symmetric about the y-axis, since f(-x) = f(x)
Sorry; I was thinking of even functions.
You know that when the graph crosses the x-axis, there's a root there. The function changes from - to +. However, a root of even multiplicity means that f(x) is positive on both sides of the root, since x^2>=0. So, the graph is tangent to the x-axis, rather than crossinng it.
You know that when the graph crosses the x-axis, there's a root there. The function changes from - to +. However, a root of even multiplicity means that f(x) is positive on both sides of the root, since x^2>=0. So, the graph is tangent to the x-axis, rather than crossinng it.